More than 14 million Americans suffer from rosacea, a persistent redness that spreads across the face, according to Dr. Ray Sahelian. While a number of triggers have been identified, the success rate of treatments varies. Some rosacea experts believe that the condition can be treated by diet, including by soy.
Rosacea
Rosacea presents itself as redness on the cheeks, nose and across the forehead, often looking like little broken blood vessels just under the skin. Middle-aged women often suffer from acne rosacea, pustules that are hard to get rid of. Ocular rosacea affects the eye, causing redness and crustiness. The condition can be persistent or it may come and go.
Causes of Rosacea
The causes of rosacea may be environmental, genetic, dietary or an inflammation caused by microorganisms. Immediate triggers also vary from person to person. Common triggers include hot water and saunas, skin care products, alcoholic beverages and hot drinks like coffee. Scratching or rubbing your face makes it worse. Men should use electric shavers instead of blades. Avoid using a towel on your face. Instead, let facial skin air dry.
Soy Sauce and Rosacea
Soy sauce is one trigger mentioned in many online rosacea forums. This may be due to the fermentation process involved in making soy sauce. But soy sauce might not be a trigger for all who suffer from rosacea. According to the Minar Dermatology website, “In addition to fiery seasonings, specific food triggers may include chocolate, yogurt, tomatoes, marinated meats, soy sauce and vinegar.”
Alkaline Diet
There’s a close relationship between digestive tract health and skin health, according to Scott Olson, a naturopathic doctor. Foods that cause inflammation in the gut can also inflame the skin. Olson recommends an alkaline rather than an acidic diet. Every food can be placed on a spectrum from acidic to alkaline, with water in the middle. Olson says on his website that the body does best when it stays at a neutral balance, or just slightly on the alkaline side. To accomplish this, he recommends a vegetarian diet heavy on fruits and vegetables. However, despite the long love affair between vegetarians and soy products, Olson warns that tofu is an acid-forming food. If you want to try the alkaline diet to control rosacea, you should limit your tofu intake.
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